David Fialkow: From Early Life to Professional Excellence

David Fialkow's early life was marked by a passion for learning that would eventually lead him to become a successful professional. He was born in 1960 in Massachusetts.

Growing up, Fialkow was an avid reader and developed a strong work ethic. He attended Harvard University, where he earned his Bachelor's degree.

Fialkow's academic achievements laid the foundation for his future success, and he went on to earn his law degree from Harvard Law School.

David Fialkow was born in Boston, Massachusetts, and attended Buckingham Browne & Nichols School in Cambridge.

He then attended Colgate University, where he earned a B.A. in fine arts, with a concentration in film, and graduated in 1981.

Fialkow took a year off to make a documentary film on biking and run a T-shirt business before entering law school.

During his undergraduate years, he started a successful T-shirt business, and in 1987, he co-founded Last-Minute Travel Company (later changed to National Leisure Group), which offered discounted vacations for individuals with flexible schedules.

Here are some of the notable businesses Fialkow co-founded, including:

After graduating from law school in 1985, Fialkow worked as an associate at Thomas H. Lee's firm, as well as U.S. Venture Partners.

David Fialkow was born in Boston, Massachusetts. He attended Buckingham Browne & Nichols School in Cambridge.

Fialkow then went on to attend Colgate University, where he earned a B.A. in fine arts with a concentration in film. This early education laid the groundwork for his future pursuits.

Fialkow graduated from Colgate in 1981. After completing his studies, he took a year off to pursue his passion for filmmaking and entrepreneurship.

During this time, Fialkow made a documentary film on biking and ran a T-shirt business. This experience likely honed his skills in creative problem-solving and risk-taking.

Fialkow then went on to earn a J.D. degree from Boston College in 1985.

Fialkow's early career was marked by a series of entrepreneurial ventures, starting from a young age. He met fellow General Catalyst Co-Founder Joel Cutler in first grade, and they would go on to launch several successful businesses together.

Fialkow started a successful T-shirt business while an undergraduate at Colgate. This early experience likely honed his skills in marketing and management.

In 1987, Fialkow co-founded Last-Minute Travel Company, which later became National Leisure Group, offering discounted vacations for individuals with flexible schedules. By the time of its sale in 1995, Last-Minute Travel was the second-largest vacation package provider in the United States.

Fialkow worked as a driver for Thomas H. Lee, a pioneer in leveraged buyouts, and later as an associate at Lee's firm and U.S. Venture Partners. These experiences gave him valuable insight into the business world.

Fialkow and Cutler founded several applied technology-based platforms and tools, including Alliance Development Group, Retail Growth ATM Systems, and Starboard Cruise Services. These ventures were sold to companies like MyPoints.com, PNC Bank, and LVMH.

For your interest: Aileen Lee

David Fialkow's professional life is a testament to his entrepreneurial spirit and dedication to innovation. He is a co-founder and managing partner of Polaris Partners, a venture capital firm that has invested in over 100 companies.

David's experience in the tech industry spans multiple decades, with a focus on software and information technology. He has also served on the boards of several companies.

David Fialkow's approach to venture capital is centered around supporting companies that have the potential to drive significant change. He has invested in companies like Akamai Technologies and TripAdvisor.

David's expertise in the tech industry has earned him recognition as a pioneer in the field of venture capital.

Broaden your view: Josh Kopelman First round Capital

David Fialkow is a dedicated philanthropist who has made a significant impact through his involvement with various non-profit organizations.

He has served as the chairman of the Pan-Mass Challenge, a 100-plus mile bike-a-thon that benefits the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. In 2024, the organization raised a remarkable $75 million for the institute, bringing the total to over $1 billion.

David's commitment to philanthropy extends beyond the Pan-Mass Challenge, as he is also involved with several other organizations.

Here are some of the notable non-profit organizations he is associated with: